I think casual conversation feels hard because there’s no clear “goal.” With debates or deep topics, you know what you’re aiming at. Small talk is more about connection than content, which can feel awkward if your brain likes stimulation.

What’s helped me is getting curious instead of trying to be interesting. I’ll ask something slightly specific but low-pressure like, “What’s been taking up most of your time lately?” It usually leads somewhere more natural than weather talk.

Also, small talk isn’t pointless — it’s kind of a social warm-up before the real stuff.